The Map of Salt and Stars
by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar
It’s a weird world. Or is it a beautiful world and we are too distracted to truly enjoy it? Are we too caught up on the latest, fastest, craziest scene? You have to meet people like Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar and that’s when you feel hopeful, again. Reality is not as dreary as someone shouts and touts. There are plenty of amazingly talented people who seek, create, share and connect.
The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar contains some of the most beautiful writing published now. Read about the world in colors, smells, feelings, portraits and landscapes as Jennifer sees it and you’ll feel your heartbeat like you haven’t in a while.
The present and the future demand more understanding, compassion, empathy, civility. Not less. Never less. Read Jennifer Zeynam Joukhadar’s full interview and you’ll agree that brilliant and humble, inspiring and down to earth can be used, although are not sufficient, to describe one person we are so honored to know and call our own… More...
The Map of Salt and Stars by Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar contains some of the most beautiful writing published now. Read about the world in colors, smells, feelings, portraits and landscapes as Jennifer sees it and you’ll feel your heartbeat like you haven’t in a while.
The present and the future demand more understanding, compassion, empathy, civility. Not less. Never less. Read Jennifer Zeynam Joukhadar’s full interview and you’ll agree that brilliant and humble, inspiring and down to earth can be used, although are not sufficient, to describe one person we are so honored to know and call our own… More...
Fall River
by Pat Heywood & Jamil McGinnis
You have to love life. You have to find ways to love. You have to seek people who give you reasons to love a life that makes sense. This is why you have to watch Fall River. It’s a film full of heart. It got soul. It is truthful. It is reality. Unfiltered. Unretouched. Pure emotions.
Fall River highlights the essence of love. Communities and people are not statistics. Lives are never one dimensional. Fall River is the antidote of all the negativity and divisiveness we cannot ignore and from which none of us can escape unscathed.
Pat Heywood & Jamil McGinnis, are the two young, talented film makers behind Fall River. Their visions are remarkable because their honesty and hope are genuine. Get a glimpse of what has attracted us to their work and support young artists like Pat and Jamil.
Enjoy more...
Fall River highlights the essence of love. Communities and people are not statistics. Lives are never one dimensional. Fall River is the antidote of all the negativity and divisiveness we cannot ignore and from which none of us can escape unscathed.
Pat Heywood & Jamil McGinnis, are the two young, talented film makers behind Fall River. Their visions are remarkable because their honesty and hope are genuine. Get a glimpse of what has attracted us to their work and support young artists like Pat and Jamil.
Enjoy more...
FALL RIVER by Jamil & Pat on Vimeo.
Phyla of Joy
by Karen An-hwei Lee
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Karen An-hwei Lee is a published author of poetry, fiction, essays, & translations. Her work is selected for various anthologies and it appears in over a hundred respectable publishing platforms. Her volume of Song Dynasty translations, Doubled Radiance: Poetry & Prose by Li Qingzhao, is forthcoming (Singing Bone Press, 2018) and her avant-garde novel, Sonata in K was published last year (Ellipsis Press, 2017). Lee is a voting member of the National Book Critics Circle and she has over a decade of university level teaching experience. A former writing resident at MacDowell Colony of the Arts and the Millay Arts Colony, Lee holds an M.F.A. in Literary Arts from Brown University and a Ph.D. in British & American Literature from the University of California, Berkeley.
It would take a whole lot more to write out in detail the list of achievements, awards, and recognition that Karen An-hewi Lee has received for her writing. But it’s best if you read her exclusive interview for our HocTok community. Read her poetry and don’t hesitate to reach out for more. It’ll be easy to connect to the humanity, empathy, and serenity transmitted through the author’s sincere words and thoughts. Don’t we all need to hear more from a good-hearted human being who thrives on the complexity of her creative mind to imagine, discover, and inspire. Read more.. |
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
Discovering the Beauty of Nature
Kirsti KooHoo
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To beat the blues
to come back from the depths of darkness to make the dark clouds pass… I go outdoors to spend time in nature |
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…to admire the ever-chancing setting around me, the vast landscapes, the tiniest details; ants running around, birds chasing sunrays, the glittering sea that echoes the stories from all the shores the waves have already seen. …to witness how the light showers hope on the ground helping the flowers to find their way through the snow. How rain falls on the sunshine revealing the delicate designs of the leaves. * * * I go into nature… ...to feel the motion of silence quiet magical. To lean on a horizon. Own or borrowed. And just to be in the moment. Just to be still Read the full poem here. |
#BeatTheBlues
by Ken Ueno
Ken Ueno |
Music saved my life. When I was eighteen, I thought I had lost everything. Everything I had planned for my life – attend West Point, serve my country, become a general, then come back to California to become a senator - was taken away from me. Having survived the first year at West Point (still the hardest year of my life), and going into the second year, I suffered an injury in a training accident. That was the end of Plan A. I went back home to convalesce with my mother for two years. Those two years were the hardest years of my life. I had no idea what would become of me. It all seemed hopeless. Thankfully, a year before heading to college, I had discovered Jimi Hendrix. Read more... |
UMUV
Post. Search. Connect.
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New day. New goals. More dreams. More running and juggling ahead. And in that spirit of high intensity, positive energy, we decided to start the week with our friend Olsi Gjeci. He is a New York City based choreographer and artistic director currently promoting his latest project UMUV. “UMUV is a global dance platform that allows dancers, dance teachers and dance enthusiasts from all over the world to publish their dance services” Olsi Gjeci says.
If you’re a dancer or have considered becoming part of a dance community, then you’d definitely want to check out UMUV. And guess what? Even if dance is outside of your orbit, you can still visit UMUV to see if you find something new and exciting to add to your life. In Olsi’s own words, “Even though UMUV aims to unite and grow the professional global dance community, it is not limited to users who practice dance professionally. It goes beyond that niche since it becomes a space where all can look for their favorite dance services efficiently.” UMUV was created to be inviting and open to everyone! |
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Give it a try! You might be pleasantly surprised or you might find out that this is exactly what you’ve been waiting for all your life. Either way, read more about UMUV and its co-founder, Olsi Gjeci. Reach for your dancing shoes, a dance partner and enjoy...
Natural Creativity
by Halima Cassell
Halima Cassell is an artist, a sculptor based in Shropshire, England. She is the winner of the 2018 Sovereign Asian Art Prize.
Halima was born in Kashmir, Pakistan, and brought up in Lancashire. Her multicultural background is tangibly present in her work she says. But all you need to do to enjoy Halima’s sculptures is see them, experience them. Her play with light and shadow, immaculate lines, perfect symmetry create an overall effect that is magnificent. Halima Cassell’s sculptures are a show stopper whether exhibited indoors or out. They are in harmony with nature and they are the focal point in any enclosed space. Hours of work imagining, planning, crafting and bringing to life a new creation meant to engage the viewer to see, understand, explore further. Halima Cassell’s sculptures have been shown in Europe, Asia, and North America. Many are part of private collections.
Check out the artist’s interview here and find a way to see her works in person the first chance you get. Enjoy!
Halima was born in Kashmir, Pakistan, and brought up in Lancashire. Her multicultural background is tangibly present in her work she says. But all you need to do to enjoy Halima’s sculptures is see them, experience them. Her play with light and shadow, immaculate lines, perfect symmetry create an overall effect that is magnificent. Halima Cassell’s sculptures are a show stopper whether exhibited indoors or out. They are in harmony with nature and they are the focal point in any enclosed space. Hours of work imagining, planning, crafting and bringing to life a new creation meant to engage the viewer to see, understand, explore further. Halima Cassell’s sculptures have been shown in Europe, Asia, and North America. Many are part of private collections.
Check out the artist’s interview here and find a way to see her works in person the first chance you get. Enjoy!
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Tug Rice
Living with Art
In a world of mean tweets, heartbreaking news, as well as plenty of fluffy nonsense, there is need for a healthy dose of awesome art by talented artists who make anyone smile and hope with their renditions of reality. Look for Tug Rice. He is an actor, writer, and illustrator based in New York City. Flying high after a wonderful month-long exhibition of his illustrations in Palm Springs at the Grace Home Gallery, Tug is busy with rehearsals for The Servant of Two Masters at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. The play, an Italian farce from the 1700s, opens June 27th and runs for a month. Don’t miss the chance to see Tug Rice on stage.
Tug is a triple threat like few others. He is a self-taught illustrator who sees NYC as the epicenter of excitement anytime of year including sizzling summers or frigid cold winters. He writes, composes and is even a lyricist. He is always active on theater stages around the country.
Tug is a triple threat like few others. He is a self-taught illustrator who sees NYC as the epicenter of excitement anytime of year including sizzling summers or frigid cold winters. He writes, composes and is even a lyricist. He is always active on theater stages around the country.
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NYC Subway |
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Change the beat! Turn your attention to people who create and work on creative projects to lighten up the mood and inspire many others.
Tug Rice is one of those multi-talented, multi-dimensional artists whose name you need to know and whose work you need to get acquainted with for positive vibes in your own life. More...
Tug Rice is one of those multi-talented, multi-dimensional artists whose name you need to know and whose work you need to get acquainted with for positive vibes in your own life. More...
Spanish Inspiration
by Judith JáureguiJudith Jáuregui is a young pianist who travels the world performing some of the most magical pieces written for piano. She has started learning piano at the age of five and she was on stage performing for an audience at the age of 8. Technical perfection, sensibility, elegance describe Judith Jáuregui’s piano performances. Her playing as well as her stage presence embody character and style. What Judith Jáuregui lives for are those powerful moments of magical silence during her performances when there is an intense connection between the artist and her audience. An enchanting experience like no other.
In addition to her own performances, Judith Jáuregui is a remarkable ambassador of classical music because her attitude towards it is very real. She says that contemporary artists have a responsibility to play and showcase the music of our time. On the same note, she invites young people to simply close their eyes and let themselves be carried away by the emotions of music, without prejudices. Then, she reminds us all that there are 40 million kids learning to play the piano today. She says, “That’s 40 million future musicians!” |
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
If you are in Spain, France, Germany, England these coming months, you will have many opportunities to catch a live performance of Judith Jáuregui. On Saturday, February 17, 2018, she will be performing piano works by Beethoven, Debussy, Schumann, Poulenc, Mendelssohn at the Festival du Piano de Toulon in Toulon, France. She will return to France many times throughout the year and one of her most special concerts will be her Paris debut at the Auditorium du Louvre on May 17. Judith will also be performing in Germany, all across Spain, and tour China in July. But we have to confess, the biggest treat for us all will be to go to a Judith Jáuregui concert here in New York City. Really looking forward to that!
Read more...
Read more...
Nordic Tunes
by The Danish String Quartet
The Danish String Quartet is one of the most exciting quartets presenting really exhilarating programs of beautiful music. The best news is that they are on tour in the US this month. Their concerts are a treat like no other for all music lovers. Skeptics and new comers are invited to accept the challenge of attending a live performance or listening to a recording by the Danish String Quartet. The fluidity of their performances, their confidence, thorough understanding of each work they pick and fine interpretation is captivating.
February 25th is the date to circle for the Danish String Quartet concert at the Alice Tully Hall in New York City. It will be the last leg of their tour after having performed in Santa Fe, New Mexico; Seattle, Washington; Eugene, Oregon; San Francisco, Santa Barbara and a few other cities in California. Their final US based performance will be in Princeton, New Jersey, on February 28th after a concert on the 27th at the Williams Center for the Arts in Easton, Pennsylvania. To get everyone worked up about the possibility of experiencing a live performance by the Danish String Quartet, we are sharing with you an interview with Rune, Asbjørn, Fredrik. We are looking forward to see them all in NYC including Frederik who has been extra busy taking on probably the most important role of his life that of being a father. Everything these musicians do, how they live their lives, how they make music, how they appreciate and adore their families, how they work, research, rehearse and share a beer with one another speak volumes about their individual characteristics, their group portrait, their road to success, and their path ahead. It's an honor getting to know The Danish Quartet from up close. We'll be hearing more exquisite music from them for years to come.
Enjoy our interview with these happy Vikings and listen to excerpts of music by The Danish String Quartet…
Semeleby Myrsini AristidouMyrsini Aristidou is a filmmaker, writer, producer, and a free spirit, a doer, a good soul who doesn’t miss a beat wherever she makes her home. Her recent film, Aria, premiered at the 74th Venice Biennale. Semele, another of her works that premiered in 2015, won several international awards, including the Berlinale Short Film Special Prize. Myrsini tells us that the initial spark of conception for all her films happens through a glimpse of a moment remembered or lived from her own experiences. Seeing herself as a citizen of the world rather than choosing a country to live in, speaks of her ability to connect with audiences everywhere.
In addition to filmmaking, Myrsini is involved in development work focusing on children’s education especially in underserved communities and areas of the world. She is a co-founder of the Sagapo Children's Foundation, providing the necessary tools and environment for societies and communities to become self-sufficient. Myrsini Aristidou is an artist whose love for art fuels her passions and her love of life feeds her art. She sees knowledge as the key to freedom and a state of mind that overcomes all obstacles. Read her exclusive interview with us here and watch her movies... More... |
Photo: Luis Loizides Mitsu |
Blake Jamieson
Bright & Bold
Blake Jamieson is an artist located near San Francisco. Bold and bright colors and personality with clear goals and plans how to get there, he makes art works that are memorable and fun. He is always true to himself focusing on how his art is seen in as many places as possible. Don’t forget what you value the most is what Blake Jamieson says through his own life choices. If it’s your freedom, then choose that. Forget about titles and compensation packages and live a life without regrets following your passions.
Read more of what Blake shared with us and check out his paintings. Don't hesitate to make one or two or more of them yours...
Read more of what Blake shared with us and check out his paintings. Don't hesitate to make one or two or more of them yours...
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Electrifying Sounds
by Pauchi Sasaki
Pauchi Sasaki is a composer, performer, improviser, inventor and all-around explorer. She has written music for film, dance, theater, and she is the author of numerous successful, interdisciplinary performances. Pauchi is a multi-talented artist who always seeks to learn something new, to make friendships, to enjoy every moment while also focusing on endless preparations of one of a kind type of experiences through her live music performances. Last Friday, she played her “GAMA XVI” as part of the sold-out American Composers Orchestra concert at Carnegie Hall. She was wearing her “speaker dress” made of 100 speakers. It was one of the highlights of a truly memorable evening with special offerings as part of a program titled Reflected in Glass: Philip Glass and the Next Generation.
We say it with confidence that Pauchi Sasaki is one of the most impressive artists you’ll come across. She is all smiles and positive energy every time of day, every day of the year. Sasaki puts on magical music performances that awaken the senses in small stages and large venues alike.
Her musical career started at the age of five with a violin in hand. But by then, she had accumulated five years of listening experience as her mom was a piano player. After completing her studies in journalism, Pauchi decided to return to violin. She earned a Master degree in electronics music at Mills College in California. This past year she has worked under the mentorship of Philip Glass as part of the Rolex Mentors and Protégé project. She just finished her Goethe Institute Artist Residency in Salvador Bahia in Brazil and she is already planning for the many exciting projects she has lined up. Read more of what Pauchi Sasaki shared with us and listen to her music as it will inspire to do more with your time.
Enjoy more...
Her musical career started at the age of five with a violin in hand. But by then, she had accumulated five years of listening experience as her mom was a piano player. After completing her studies in journalism, Pauchi decided to return to violin. She earned a Master degree in electronics music at Mills College in California. This past year she has worked under the mentorship of Philip Glass as part of the Rolex Mentors and Protégé project. She just finished her Goethe Institute Artist Residency in Salvador Bahia in Brazil and she is already planning for the many exciting projects she has lined up. Read more of what Pauchi Sasaki shared with us and listen to her music as it will inspire to do more with your time.
Enjoy more...
City of Joy
by Alvaro Galindo
Alvaro Galindo’s paintings are powerful. They are complex. They are intense. They are a sample of the vast universe embodied by the artist who is the creator. Take a look at Alvaro Galindo’s work to change the flow of things any time of day or night in your busy life that might feel complete, overflowing, or empty. Read what Alvaro Galindo shared with us. It is not for the subway ride to work or back home. It is reading for a nice strong cup of tea or coffee, or a shot of whiskey and some jazz in the background. You will be thankful there are people like Alvaro Galindo in the world. You’ll be thankful we are sharing the same time and space with him in this beautiful and precious planet of ours.
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Do what you have to do, but always reach out for a slice of art in your life. Alvaro Galindo’s take is that art in all its manifestations is overwhelming. The painter who lives for his art, who feels alive because of his ability to create says that art changes lives, it changes the way we think. Galindo advises that If we occupy ourselves in understanding art as art, surely nothing will happen, but if art shelters our lives, we will understand many things of the universe itself, we will understand our reason for living. We couldn’t agree more. Enjoy!
What Belongs to You
by Garth Greenwell
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Garth Greenwell’s first novel, What Belongs to You, is the 2016 winner of The British Book Award for Debut of the Year. It was longlisted for The National Book Award. It was the Finalist for The Pen/Faulkner Award, a Finalist for the James Tait Black Memorial Prize and the list goes on and on and on. If you listen to Garth Greenwell, it almost sounds as if he credits most of his book's success to a stroke of luck. But you have to read the book to see why readers and critics love it as much as they do. The book deserves all the love.
Garth Greenwell is an amazing writer who came to fiction through the world of opera and poetry. He experiences life through an expressive set of eyes that are the mirror to a beautiful soul of a strong and sensitive character. One of the ideas that is reinforced by conversing with Garth is that t’s not worth living life by other people’s definitions. Garth tells us, “I do think we all live by constantly negotiating between what we desire and what we can bear. I don’t think there’s any escape from that.” What we desire is more writing by Garth Greenwell. What we cannot bear is the waiting time, which is what it is because of so many factor like our own pestering requests for interviews to get a chance to know the author. What we are thankful for is literature as that’s how we got to know the incomparable Garth Greenwell. We also like Mr. Garthwell’s words on the subject of “real life literature" which "is what happens between a writer and the page, and also between the reader and the page. The real life of literature ... happens when a 14-year-old kid in Kentucky pulls Giovanni’s Room from a shelf and feels like it saves his life. That can’t be predicted or engineered.” Amen to that! Read What Belongs to You, if you have not already done so, and be on the waiting list for Garth Greenwell's next book. For now check out his conversation with us. Enjoy! |
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Matter Out of Place
by James Ijames
…Sit next to someone you don’t know and feel their humanity through the filter of collective suspension of disbelief. You’ll be reminded of what it feels like to be a kid again and pretend again. Don’t come to the theatre because it’s what fancy people do, come to the theatre because its freakin’ dope to breath with an instant community.
This is an open invitation from James Ijames, a performer and playwright based in Philadelphia.
This is an open invitation from James Ijames, a performer and playwright based in Philadelphia.
Ijames is a young artist, creative mind, and activist who works, writes, performs where his heart is: in the vibrant city of Philadelphia where the support for the arts and artists is natural and never ending. His body of work has won praise by local and national audiences of theater goers, newcomers, and serious critics. He is the 2017 recipient of the Whiting Award, a 2015 Pew Fellow for Playwriting, the 2015 winner of the Terrance McNally New Play Award for his play titled WHITE among other praise he has earned. James Ijames is a founding member of Orbiter 3, Philadelphia’s first playwright producing collective and a mentor of The Foundry. He is Assistant Professor of Theatre at Villanova University and resides in South Philadelphia.
Read more about James Ijames and his brilliant ideas about life in theatre and outside it. Get inspired and buy a pair of theatre tickets to experience a live show this week or even this month...
Read more about James Ijames and his brilliant ideas about life in theatre and outside it. Get inspired and buy a pair of theatre tickets to experience a live show this week or even this month...
Trust your Instrument - the VOICE
by Samantha Hankey
Samantha Hankey is a talented, Juilliard trained, American mezzo-soprano, who is also a self-described coffee addict, lover of French Bulldogs, and amateur photographer. She is the Grand Finals winner of the 2017 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. Among other prestigious contests, Samantha also won the First Prize of the Dallas Opera Guild Competition this year.
Be on the lookout as you will hear more and more of this gifted singer whose dedication to music is as thorough and as heartfelt as they come.
Be on the lookout as you will hear more and more of this gifted singer whose dedication to music is as thorough and as heartfelt as they come.
In October, Samantha Hankey will be appearing at Den Norske Opera in Oslo, Norway as Rosina in Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia. In December, she will return to Carnegie Hall in the US to sing her first Handel Messiah. The same month, she will travel to Lancaster, Pennsylvania for a concert with Voices of Hope. In February, Samantha will fly to Switzerland to perform Siebel in Gounod's Faust at Le Grand Théâtre de Genève. Don’t miss the chance to catch one of her live performances.
Whatever role she takes on, Samantha Hankey will sing her way to her audiences’ hearts. She love working through and performing characters that have strong and complex personalities that need discovery. Taking the audience through that journey is what interests her most.
Read more about what it means to be a young, ambitious, talented opera singer who’s world is vast and magical. Enjoy...
Whatever role she takes on, Samantha Hankey will sing her way to her audiences’ hearts. She love working through and performing characters that have strong and complex personalities that need discovery. Taking the audience through that journey is what interests her most.
Read more about what it means to be a young, ambitious, talented opera singer who’s world is vast and magical. Enjoy...
Travel the World Through Photography
by Kruger de Klerk
Kruger de Klerk is an artist whose work is all about Landscape, Travel, Long Exposure and Night Photography. He left his full-time job to pursue his passion and he is not looking back. Kruger’s photography can be classified in two categories: nature and urban. Through his nature shots he aims to remind the viewer of the striking beauty of our Planet. Kruger’s urban settings focus on familiar scenes that allow people to see and feel a sense of comfort and pride, that only a hometown can bring. He wants to bring a new light or a new perspective so that we all appreciate our surroundings a bit more.
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Allow yourself to get transported to amazing landscapes and see your world through the eyes and lens of Kruger de Klerk. Get inspired to take a trip, to value the place you call home, the people you are surrounded with on a daily basis. If you love photography and if you live in Atlanta, Charleston, or Greenville, SC, do not pass up the opportunity to take a photography class with the talented and passionate Kruger. It’ll open up a whole new universe for you to be part of and enjoy.
You're The Most Beautiful Thing That Happened
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by Arisa WhiteArisa White is a Cave Canem fellow, Sarah Lawrence College alumna, an MFA graduate from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and author of the poetry chapbooks Disposition for Shininess, Post Pardon, and Black Pearl. She was selected by the San Francisco Bay Guardian for the 2010 Hot Pink List and is a member of the PlayGround writers’ pool; her play Frigidare was staged for the 15th Annual Best of Play Ground Festival. Recipient of the inaugural Rose O’Neill Literary House summer residency at Washington College in Maryland, Arisa has also received residencies, fellowships, or scholarships from Juniper Summer Writing Institute, Headlands Center for the Arts, Port Townsend Writers’ Conference, Squaw Valley Community of Writers, Hedgebrook, Atlantic Center for the Arts, Prague Summer Program, Fine Arts Work Center, and Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference. Nominated for Pushcart Prizes in 2005 and 2014, her poetry has been published widely and is featured on the recording WORD with the Jessica Jones Quartet. Read more... |
Clouded Thoughts
by Janko de Beer
Janko de Beer is a South African artist hailing from Cape Town. An interesting fact about Janko is that he is a practicing Lawyer of the High Court of South Africa after having earned his law degree in 2003. Although that is an amazing achievement, in and of itself, we connected with Janko de Beer to talk about his sculptures. Every sculpture that bears his name is deeply rooted in the many riches of Africa. The beauty of the land, the magic of its people, the weight of history, the many characters and stories the artist knows and loves inspire his works.
Enjoy Janko de Beer sculptures. The impact of their powerful statements is undeniable. Imagine seeing these works in person. For that, you’ll have to visit South Africa. Some pieces of his artworks are in hotels in South Africa. While, his latest collaboration is with Create Hub Gallery in Dubai, and their exciting new space, showcasing specifically contemporary African art.
Currently, Janko is working on a project with a big five game lodge in Limpopo where a life size bronze leopard titled Feline in Motion will be installed. Until you make up your mind which way to go, check in Janko de Beer’s interview and a few samples of his amazing body of work.
Read more...
Enjoy Janko de Beer sculptures. The impact of their powerful statements is undeniable. Imagine seeing these works in person. For that, you’ll have to visit South Africa. Some pieces of his artworks are in hotels in South Africa. While, his latest collaboration is with Create Hub Gallery in Dubai, and their exciting new space, showcasing specifically contemporary African art.
Currently, Janko is working on a project with a big five game lodge in Limpopo where a life size bronze leopard titled Feline in Motion will be installed. Until you make up your mind which way to go, check in Janko de Beer’s interview and a few samples of his amazing body of work.
Read more...
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Quiet Girl in a Noisy World
by Debbie Tung
Deborah Tung is a visual artist who is not pretentious, political, or pompous. She is talented and truthful to what she knows and what she shares with the world. Debbie’s voice has found an ever-growing audience around the world. That’s due to the fact that her artwork, comics and illustrations speak a tongue known by many. It is the introvert’s lingo: subtle, honest, humorous.
We are surrounded by noise everywhere we turn. At times, it looks like we might be drowning in it. It’s a constant struggle for some or narrative for others. Either way, the loudness cannot be ignored. Some yell, threaten, bully, push their way forward. Others get naked or sacrifice all kinds of transformations to make a mark. Most seem to seek the limelight.
We like everything Deborah Tung does. It is really exciting to present here samples of her work and some of her thoughts. Debbie says, “Many of us go through moments of self-doubt and anxiety, but when we learn to accept and work with our quiet ways, that’s when we will find our voice.” No need to nod in approval. Just take your own steps, find your own voice and keep on moving. Enjoy more...
We are surrounded by noise everywhere we turn. At times, it looks like we might be drowning in it. It’s a constant struggle for some or narrative for others. Either way, the loudness cannot be ignored. Some yell, threaten, bully, push their way forward. Others get naked or sacrifice all kinds of transformations to make a mark. Most seem to seek the limelight.
We like everything Deborah Tung does. It is really exciting to present here samples of her work and some of her thoughts. Debbie says, “Many of us go through moments of self-doubt and anxiety, but when we learn to accept and work with our quiet ways, that’s when we will find our voice.” No need to nod in approval. Just take your own steps, find your own voice and keep on moving. Enjoy more...
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Okuda San Miguel
Coloring the World
Okuda San Miguel is a name worth knowing. He is an artist who makes exciting art all around the world. His art can be viewed in 15 countries now. That list will certainly grow based on how well people respond to the colorful and meaningful portraits and characters created by Okuda San Miguel.
Reach for the rainbow palette, seek love and find it in others. Don't fall prey of schemes and trickery that keep us divided and breed hatred. All we need is love and a real desire to connect and communicate. Okuda San Miguel will make you realize that life is too short to be wasted away in one dimensional formats. Be daring, honest, and blatantly rebellious against restrictions, borders and unnatural views of a colorless universe.
Enjoy more...
Reach for the rainbow palette, seek love and find it in others. Don't fall prey of schemes and trickery that keep us divided and breed hatred. All we need is love and a real desire to connect and communicate. Okuda San Miguel will make you realize that life is too short to be wasted away in one dimensional formats. Be daring, honest, and blatantly rebellious against restrictions, borders and unnatural views of a colorless universe.
Enjoy more...
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How To Go On
by Dale TrumboreDale Trumbore is an LA based composer who writes beautiful music that is touching and pertinent to our modern lives. Her compositions have been commissioned, awarded and performed widely in the U.S. and internationally by a diverse group of outstanding ensembles. Dale Trumbore is the type of artist who truly engages in every project she is involved with and it shows in the quality of her music. Trumbore's latest project is a successful collaboration with Choral Arts Initiative finalized with the recording of her secular requiem titled How to Go On. The composer sets in music words of three living poets--Barbara Crooker, Amy Fleury, and Laura Foley. The end result is a graceful, yet breathtaking work that warms the heart and gives strength in facing small and big challenges of any type.
Choral Arts Initiative recently released their first album, How to Go On: The Choral Works of Dale Trumbore, that debuted at #6 on Billboard's Traditional Classical Chart. The album has been very well received by listeners and critics. They have described it as “Beautiful. Soul-Healing Music.” and “Absolutely stunning from beginning to end.” Spend a few minutes to buy and then take your time listening to CAI’s recording of Trumbore’s music. It'll help in your search of finding meaning to every passing moment of life. Enjoy more... |
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People I Saw But Never Met
by Zadok Ben-David
ZADOK BEN-DAVID, is one of the UK & Israel's best known artists. He was born in Yemen in 1949 and immigrated to Israel in the same year. He shares his time between England, Israel & Portugal, where he makes his large sculpture. He has had over sixty solo exhibitions since 1980 including representing Israel at the 1988 Venice Biennale. One of Zadok Ben-David’s most acclaimed sculpture installations "Evolution & Theory" is shown around the world sometimes to record crowds in museums in Israel, Singapore, USA, Germany and the Netherlands. His work is in public, corporate and private collections in Europe, Israel, USA and Australia.
Facing Zadok Ben-David’s sculptures is an experience in and of itself. Having the opportunity to share this great artist’s thoughts and memories is an honor. Ben-David's understanding of human nature and his ability to connect with the world through his art is a testament to his power which is undeniable without any fuss or fanfare. Connecting with Zadok Ben-David for HocTok is another one of those pinch me to prove I’m not dreaming moments. Smile. Life is beautiful and full of beautifully creative minds is another thought that occurs naturally.
Facing Zadok Ben-David’s sculptures is an experience in and of itself. Having the opportunity to share this great artist’s thoughts and memories is an honor. Ben-David's understanding of human nature and his ability to connect with the world through his art is a testament to his power which is undeniable without any fuss or fanfare. Connecting with Zadok Ben-David for HocTok is another one of those pinch me to prove I’m not dreaming moments. Smile. Life is beautiful and full of beautifully creative minds is another thought that occurs naturally.
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Being sincere, genuine and honest is what Zadok Ben-David sees as crucial in an artist’s work. “Being out of tune is visible,” he writes. Then he confesses that his road of becoming an artist started with failure when he was kicked out after two years from the first art school he went to. Ben-David’s advice to young artists is to hear the criticisms but not necessarily to listen or to materialize it automatically. "Even teachers can be wrong and mistaken in reading you and analyzing your work," he says. On a personal level, Ben-David credits his success thanks to supporting parents, teachers, fellow students, writers, artists and close friends. But the greatest influence and inspiration for an artist of his statue came from observing the Human Nature. Enjoy more...
All About Love
by Lang Leav
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Lang Leav is a writer who likes to blur the lines between poetry and prose, alternating between traditional poetry to free verse. She writes for the broken hearted, the ones who are trying to make sense of their feelings. Readers around the world adore her writing and so do we. Reading what Lang Leav shared with us is the biggest and best treat one could ever wish for. It’s as if getting special access to her magic making world. Lang Leav is beautiful in every sense of the word. She knows, understands, conveys the meaning of love and other complex themes with striking simplicity. She does it so effortlessly because that’s her vernacular.
But could you have ever imagined that Lang Leav’s life began in a Thai refugee camp where her parents were seeking refuge from the Khmer Rouge regime? Lang told us, “I grew up in the midst of collective sadness and despair... As a child, writing was an escape for me. It wasn’t so much a choice as it was a necessity.” Years later, in 2013, to be exact, it was her book “Love & Misadventure” that unassumingly took on the leading role in getting the younger generation hooked on poetry again. Her poetry was the unintentional and most effective counterargument to the Washington Post article (of the same year) suggesting that poetry was dead. Poetry will never die because of writers like Lang Leav. SAD GIRLS is Lang Leav’s debut novel with a worldwide release date of May 30th, 2017. Make a copy of it yours as soon as you can. Read more... |
In Pencil & Paper
by Christelle Bilodeau
Christelle Bilodeau’s portfolio includes amazing pencil drawings of some fantastic artists such Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Amy Winehouse, Bob Dylan, Lady Gaga and many more. Her artistry is undeniable and just take a look at her body of work for an introduction to her talent. Christelle’s portraits reflect a high level of precision, plenty of details and that that little something that captivates the essence of each individual who becomes the subject of her art pieces.
It was really enjoyable listening to Christelle Bilodeau talk about work process, her fears facing a big project, her feelings of joy finishing up another wonderful piece of art. She reminded us how the genius of Andy Warhol continues to inspire generations of talented artists like herself. There’s so much to look forward to when it comes to Christelle’s own body of work. It will be pure joy to cheer her on! Read more...
It was really enjoyable listening to Christelle Bilodeau talk about work process, her fears facing a big project, her feelings of joy finishing up another wonderful piece of art. She reminded us how the genius of Andy Warhol continues to inspire generations of talented artists like herself. There’s so much to look forward to when it comes to Christelle’s own body of work. It will be pure joy to cheer her on! Read more...
Amy Winehouse - Before Frank series. (2/2) Pencils and colored pencils on 15'x20' paper - July 2016 |
Pencil drawing of Bob Dylan, Graphite pencils on 11'x14' paper - 2012 |
Pencil drawing of Lady Gaga, graphite pencils on 18'x24' paper - 2016 |
Connecting Through Music
by Wojciech MilewskiWojciech Milewski is a young conductor with a promising future and a track record that shows his passion for music and dedication to it. His life choice is his way of dealing with “beauty and almost a responsibility to elevate every second you spend with music, and that’s pretty much the reason I love doing what I do for a living.”
Wojciech has read, studied, practiced music since the young age of nine. He almost made the decision to pursue a life in international business but his heart had deeper ties to music. He is currently preparing two concerts here in Summerville, SC these last days of March and in May. He will be the Music Director of an educational tour with the Santa Fe Opera in April and May. He is certainly looking forward to his return as an assistant conductor at Opera NEO in San Diego. 12 hours a day surrounded by music, with access to amazing food, and the beach so close...who wouldn’t fall for that? Read what Wojciech Milewski shares with us on the path of becoming a conductor, the meaning and effort to get to a certain point and how to push forward. What we were reminded of is that a musician’s life is much more exciting, stressful, idealistic, suspenseful, and much more rewarding than most realize. Check out your youth orchestras programs and get to know your local or regional music groups. Become part of a new musical experience inspired by what you hear from us here. |
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
Alternate Realities
by James Ng
James Ng creates amazing visuals providing alternative realities that might satisfy a long list of “What If-s…” It’s clear that he is well aware of his surroundings, history of the world and livelihoods of many people who clash, resist or succumb to power.
Being sucked into the charming realities that James has brought to life, it’s easy to wonder on what is and what could have been. What’s certain is that little else is as effective as creating fantastical imagery pondering life under different forms of hierarchical schemes.
Look at James Ng’s body of work if you ever wondered how would the world look like if the ideals and values of a nonwestern culture inspired today's technology?
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Being sucked into the charming realities that James has brought to life, it’s easy to wonder on what is and what could have been. What’s certain is that little else is as effective as creating fantastical imagery pondering life under different forms of hierarchical schemes.
Look at James Ng’s body of work if you ever wondered how would the world look like if the ideals and values of a nonwestern culture inspired today's technology?
Read more...
Crystal-Herbalist |
Night-Patrol |
Imperial-Inventor |
Timo Andres
Words Fail, Music Triumphs
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
Timo Andres is a composer and pianist living in Brooklyn. He is a 2016 Pulitzer Prize Finalist for his piano concerto The Blind Banister.
What makes Timo’s music particularly special is the brilliance behind his reserved temperament, easy to detect once you listen to his works or attend one of his performances. He is an ingenious composer with a deep understanding of the world around him and the preceding history. He is a gifted pianist who travels constantly and has a good grasp of what audiences love and what they welcome when it comes to new music offerings. Shy and Mighty, his 2010 debut album for two pianos, was a triumph by all accounts for the young Nonesuch Records artist. Alex Ross wrote about this work in The New Yorker stating that “it achieves an unhurried grandeur that has rarely been felt in American music since John Adams came on the scene… more mighty than shy, [Andres] sounds like himself.” |
Wednesday, October 19, 2016, is a date to mark on your calendars. It's the National Sawdust curatorial debut of Timo Andres, promising an exciting evening of delectable treats for musicians and non-musicians alike. The impressive program will also feature the New York premiere of Andres' Words Fail performed by celebrated violinist Yevgeny Kutik accompanied on the piano by the composer himself. If you ain’t got the chance to attend National Sawdust, listen to Home Stretch, Shy and Mighty and other works by Timo Andres.
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Dreams Do Come True
by L. Kasimu HarrisL. Kasimu Harris is an artist who loves telling stories in a variety of mediums. His creative process is inspired by his love for fashion, journalism, food, and music. Every day he wakes up telling himself, “Get up and do what you have to do. Be great.”
L. Kasimu Harris is the author of A Blackness Continuum, a film that will make anyone think long and hard about race and equality. His photography is a study in portraits of impressive characters. His writing and journalistic endeavors evolve around the many offerings of his hometown of New Orleans. Despite his path of choice for any given project, one thing is for certain, Kasimu is relentless in the pursuit of storytelling and his art. His voice is shaped by curiosity, fascination and the desire to tell stories the way he likes to hear them. Visually, he wants to show things in a way they haven’t been seen before. Check out his photography to get a glimpse of portraits of men and women who have captured Kasimu’s attention. Watch A Blackness Continuum with an open mind and open heart. Be inspired by his unique sense of style, which is a form of expression and…an act of resistance. Explore New Orleans through his lens and words. Be on the look out for what’s next … Read more... |
Photo: Gus Bennett Jr. |
Serena Brook
Different Genres in One
Photo: courtesy of the artist |
Serena Brook is an actor, singer, voice over artist from Minnesota. The cold, cold winters don't scare her one bit. But she also loves traveling around the country with really cool projects. The ukulele, a birthday gift years ago, has turned into a passion side project. After working Off-Broadway and on the national circuit, Serena got another surprise. She became a member of the Prairie Home Companion team. Listen for yourself and you'll see she is a truly good fit for it.
Serena thanks her lucky stars for living such a dream which includes having cast-mates that are the cream of the crop. The whole experience is a beautiful combination of her favorite artistic worlds—theatre, music, comedy, voiceover, creative writing, improv….” Serena Brook is a genuine artist with real love for her craft, visible desire and dedication to a truthful life full of laughter, adventure, music, and creativity. Enjoy the art and follow Serena’s words, “see the world and be inspired by the genuine, eccentric, and delightful people in it…” Read more... |
Wandering Souls
by Dani Olivier
Dani Olivier uses imagery with the hope of making people react and become sensitive to his graphical universe. He says, “We are all beautiful people with perfect imperfections but, sometimes art can be close to perfection and it's good to try reaching it.”
Looking at Dani Olivier’s photography, it is easy to get lost in his many depictions of female beauty appearing in silhouettes where light and darkness, colors and lines dance and flow magically.
Dani Olivier earned a business degree from one of France’s most prestigious schools. He proved himself to be a successful entrepreneur as the founder of media companies that continue to thrive. Throughout the years he worked hard, but still found time to keep alive his love for the arts, with a fantastic visual universe in his mind. He dedicated time and effort to learn and perfect his technique in photography. Finally, the moment came when Dani could no longer ignore that inner voice telling him to dedicate his time to photography and he did just that.
Read more...
Looking at Dani Olivier’s photography, it is easy to get lost in his many depictions of female beauty appearing in silhouettes where light and darkness, colors and lines dance and flow magically.
Dani Olivier earned a business degree from one of France’s most prestigious schools. He proved himself to be a successful entrepreneur as the founder of media companies that continue to thrive. Throughout the years he worked hard, but still found time to keep alive his love for the arts, with a fantastic visual universe in his mind. He dedicated time and effort to learn and perfect his technique in photography. Finally, the moment came when Dani could no longer ignore that inner voice telling him to dedicate his time to photography and he did just that.
Read more...
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Sweet Melodies
by Rana Santacruz
Photo: Erin Patrice OBrien |
Rana Santacruz is the coolest rana around singing ranchero style. Embrace the visual landscapes painted in words and enjoy the fun and joyous rhythms that melt away sadness, boredom, or apathy. Rana Santacruz is a talented singer, instrumentalist, poet with a wicked sense of humor, and love for adventure.
In a world of ordinary noise invading more than its fair share, to be an artist who explores, creates and lives in dignity is very respectable indeed. Without wanting to sound too preachy and not to forget the theatrical side of things, know that two ghosts whispered to his ear, “Bury my ashes under a tree near the sea, enjoy a polka and have a feast.” He went ahead and wrote a song. Listen to his repertoire and pick your favorites. This is a good chance to venture away from familiar waters. It might help knowing that only a few months ago many people lined up at Lincoln Center in NYC and Vive Latino in Mexico City to hear Rana Santacruz. Read more... |
FIDA A R T
Just Wanna Have Fun
Have you ever heard of Fida? The young artist from Saudi Arabia?! No worries. We have had the chance to speak with her for you and for our own pleasure. Just so you know, Fida is a fun young artist whose works have reached people in all four corners of the world. She has a strong fan base thanks to social media. It all looks promising for galleries in search of artists with works like a breath of fresh air.
Fida’s works are colorful, meaningful and imaginative. You can laugh, smile, question, and fly away in a dreamlike reality. It’ll be easy to detect common features that unite us humans without the need of translation or this and that. See for yourself but we’re certain Fida’s works will bring a sparkle in your eyes and a smile on your face.
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Fida’s works are colorful, meaningful and imaginative. You can laugh, smile, question, and fly away in a dreamlike reality. It’ll be easy to detect common features that unite us humans without the need of translation or this and that. See for yourself but we’re certain Fida’s works will bring a sparkle in your eyes and a smile on your face.
Read more...
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Stephen Duane
For the Love of Swing
If in Charleston, yes, the city of cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and pastel pre-Civil-War-era houses, birthplace of ...,you got it, the Charleston, why not go out Swing dancing. The Roaring 20’s Hot Jazz Dance Club is the group you want to meet and join, like, right now.
You love the stylish, carefree attitude of that bygone era but you certainly don’t think, you’re cut for the dancing part. Well, don’t sell yourself short. Stephen Duane of The Roaring 20’s Hot Jazz Dance Club says confidently that anyone of any age, size, or ability to keep rhythm can Swing dance. It all starts with love of the music.
You love the stylish, carefree attitude of that bygone era but you certainly don’t think, you’re cut for the dancing part. Well, don’t sell yourself short. Stephen Duane of The Roaring 20’s Hot Jazz Dance Club says confidently that anyone of any age, size, or ability to keep rhythm can Swing dance. It all starts with love of the music.
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If not in the Lowcountry area, plan to visit Charleston just to catch a performance or take a class with Stephen Duane and the team of talented dancers, artists, photographers, and musicians of the Roaring 20’s Hot Jazz Dance Club. It will be well worth it. You can thank us later.
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